4 Tips to Keep Your Windshield Protected
While we certainly hope you don’t have to deal with windshield damage, unpredictable events can happen that could compromise the structural integrity of your windshield. When this happens, know that our team is available to help to provide you with the services you need. Until then, however, consider following these expert tips to protect your windshield this year.
Stay a Safe Distance Behind Large Vehicles
Has your windshield ever been chipped or cracked when driving behind an 18-wheeler on the expressway? Or have you ever been stuck behind a gravel truck only to find that your vehicle is getting bombarded with loose gravel bits? These situations happen to more drivers than you may initially think. Roads and highways often have loose gravel and rocks on them. The tires on larger trucks can propel rocks at the vehicles trailing behind them, putting their windshields at risk.
To ensure your windshield is protected from these situations, try to avoid driving behind large commercial vehicles on highways or roads with higher speed limits. If you do find yourself driving behind or near one, make sure you aren’t following too closely — even if these vehicles are the two or three car lengths in front of you, rocks and loose gravel kicked up by their tires can still strike your windshield.
Watch the Heat
It’s no secret that it gets pretty hot in Texas. When the temperatures are extreme, it is important to make sure your windshield is protected. Because windshields are made out of glass, they face a risk of being damaged when they are exposed to high temperatures. Parking your car in a way that puts direct sunlight on your windshield can result in small cracks. Not only can heart cause the class to expand and contract, it can also weaken its structural integrity, making it more susceptible to chips, cracks, or a complete shatter.
Additionally, if you have existing windshield cracks, parking your vehicle in heat and direct sunlight can cause them to expand, and if they become larger than a quarter, it won’t be possible to repair the damage, and therefore, you will have to schedule service for a windshield replacement. When it is hot outside, you should try to park your car in shaded areas or structures. Keep your vehicle parked in your garage when at home and when running errands try parking near trees or structures that provide adequate shade or consider parking in parking garages or basements.
Swap Out Your Wiper Blades
If you notice that your windshield wipers are unable to push away water on the glass when it is raining, it’s time to have your windshield wipers replaced. Over time, wiper blades will lose their shape, which can put unnecessary stress and pressure on certain areas of the windshield. Additionally, the rubber material can wear and expose the metal body underneath. If there is metal exposed, your windshield can become scratched each time the wiper blades are used.
Worn wiper blades alone will not damage your vehicle, but when combined with other problem areas, it can weaken the glass, which again makes it more susceptible to potential cracks and chips. Purchasing new wiper blades regularly will ensure that the windshield is receiving evenly applied pressure and that water is adequately removed from it when it is raining.
Be Proactive About Chips and Cracks
If you do find yourself getting a chip or crack in your windshield, it is important to address it sooner rather than later. Chips can turn into cracks, and windshield cracks will naturally grow and spread due to temperature and pressure fluctuations. Keep in mind that the larger the crack, the more likely it is that your vehicle will need a complete replacement. Therefore, it’s better to repair these minor damages as soon as possible after they occur.
When you have a damaged windshield, Glass Leader Autoglass can provide you with the solutions you need to get back on the road safely. Our experts will assess the damage to your windshield to determine whether it requires repair or replacement. Our fast, professional, and friendly service will ensure you’re back on the road in no time. Whenever you need service, contact us.